Iona
Andrew Gunn, the owner of this iconic Elgin estate, is an unstoppable force towards vinous excellence. Andrew’s vineyards are located in The Highlands, a unique sub-region of Elgin on the saddle between two peaks, which is virtually exclusive to Iona. The uniquely elegant and mineral driven Sauvignon Blanc grown here in The Highlands is a true benchmark for South Africa and has won Iona many loyal followers from around the world. We would run out of space attempting to print all the great reviews for the Sauvignon Blanc, but here’s an equally glowing tribute to The Gunnar Red from Jonathan Ray in the Daily Telegraph: “Iona is celebrated for its Chardonnays and Sauvignons and does a fine Syrah, too. This blended red, from Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot, is a belter as well. Inimitably SA of course, it also has a touch of Left Bank Bordeaux style and is smooth and rounded with luscious ripe fruit.” Recent developments at Iona include the long awaited launch of the flagship red blend called ‘One Man Band’ in tribute to both Andrew’s guiding hand in all aspects of Iona’s development and his and Rosy’s love of fine art; the farm and charming homestead at Iona is dotted with original artwork and one of their favourites is a piece of the same name.
Other wines by this producer
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This wine has a wonderfully aromatic nose showing fine mineral notes, hints of herbs, leaves and a touch of gooseberry fruit. The palate is extremely well balanced with classic sauvignon characters of gooseberry and grapefruit and a long, fine, minerally finish. Very stylish and polished.
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Displays all the hallmarks of fine wine making in a New World cool climate.
The nose is of ripe plums with some balancing hints of leaves and mint, the palate is medium to full bodied with an elegant, well structured texture anchoring its plummy, damson and slightly spicy character. This wine is polished and stylish with an open generosity that makes it very accessible. -
The wine shows cool climate freshness and a surprising intensity, with spice and gentle game notes. It is layered with fragrant sweet, ripe cherry and blackberry flavours, with underlying almond and white pepper tones. The palate is seamless, sleek and polished, with firm, ripe tannins. The wine was aged in French oak barrels (25% new) for 12 to 18 months. Drinking well now, but is suitable for cellaring for at least 10 years.
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A full bodied and zesty Chardonnay filled with ripe stone fruit, fresh citrus and a subtle toasty aroma. Tha palate displays citrus, ripe fruit and a delicate minerality and creamy finish!
